FP - James Monroe (Lesson)

James Monroe

 

James Monroe was the 5th US President, known for solidifying American foreign policy and westward expansion with the Monroe Doctrine.

Doctrine – a particular policy given to certain circumstances or events

The Monroe Doctrine

The lasting legacy of the presidency of James Monroe was a foreign policy that influenced future presidents’ decision-making and still impacts us today. European nations wanted to gain influence and territories in the Western Hemisphere. They sought to gain control of nations that had struggled to gain or maintain independence. This new imperialism in the Western Hemisphere was a threat to the United States and its influence as a regional power.

The Monroe Doctrine was a foreign policy that stated disapproval of any European nation from establishing colonies or interfering in the Western Hemisphere. Monroe stated that the United States would intervene if this policy was not honored by other nations. In return, Monroe offered that the United States would not interfere with European interests in the Eastern Hemisphere.

  

East? West? Hemispheres? Need a refresher?

The globe is divided into east and west by the Prime Meridian, much like the equator divides the globe into north and south. The western hemisphere includes the Americas and the eastern hemisphere includes Europe, Africa and Asia.

What do you think?

Examine the following political cartoon. How does it relate to the Monroe Doctrine?

IMAGES ARE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN, VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS